PIERCE COUNTY, Wash. — A 22-year-old man was arrested on Saturday after a series of incidents involving vehicle pursuits, a crash, and a foot chase near State Route 512.
The situation began at approximately 5:22 p.m. when a deputy attempted to stop the suspect's vehicle near the Alta Apartments on Steel Street South in Tacoma. The driver failed to yield and fled northbound before slowing due to traffic, allowing deputies to deploy a tracking device and subsequently terminate the pursuit.
Moments later, deputies found the vehicle stopped at South 84th Street and Yakima Avenue. The driver was reportedly attempting to remove the tracking device when deputies approached. He then fled again, heading north before turning onto Pacific Avenue South.
At about 5:29 p.m., the vehicle collided with another vehicle near South 110th Street and Pacific Avenue South. The suspect exited the vehicle and fled on foot but was apprehended after a brief foot pursuit near SR 512.
Authorities reported a firearm was visible inside the suspect's vehicle, which will be seized pending a search warrant. Investigators will also assess the driver for possible DUI charges.
One vehicle caught fire during the collision, and four occupants from the other vehicle, including two children, were transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. A deputy also sustained an injury and was taken to the hospital.
The Washington State Patrol (WSP) is assisting with the ongoing investigation. Authorities urge the public to avoid the area as the scene is processed.